WASHINGTON, DC –  Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry and Congressman Bill Delahunt today announced that the Nantucket Memorial Airport has been awarded more than $5.7 million through a federal grant to begin construction on a long-planned, state-of-the-art passenger terminal.

Nantucket Airport is the second busiest airport in Massachusetts, serving over 500,000 passengers annually – including more than 400 daily commuters that depend on the air taxi to get to work.  During peak tourist season, the airport handles more daily flight operations than Logan International Airport

Nantucket Airport’s existing terminal building was constructed in 1970 and is outdated, undersized and inadequate to meet current federal aviation security guidelines and the increasing year-round passenger traffic to the Island.  The terminal’s plumbing, heating and electrical systems are also in dire need of replacement. 

Today’s grant is part of the proposed $25 million terminal redevelopment plan endorsed by Town Meeting last year. Specifically, the funds will be used to comply with post-September 11 security mandates which require additional space for passenger/baggage screening equipment.

When complete, the new terminal will be 25% larger than the current facility, and will enhance safety and security, passenger comfort, improve employee working conditions. It is slated to open in time for the summer 2008 tourist season.  During construction, the old terminal will continue to operate.  When the new building is finished, the former structure will be demolished to provide more space for passenger traffic on the tarmac.

"Nantucket’s extraordinary beauty has drawn people throughout the world to our Commonwealth for years," said Senator Kennedy. "It’s essential to provide access and the best possible security for residents and visitors alike, and this grant will help us do that."

Senator Kerry said, "A new control tower for the airport will be a critical piece of the overall redevelopment of the second busiest airport in Massachusetts. We can’t grow our state’s economy if we don’t improve our transportation infrastructure. These federal funds will expand the airports capacity, helping to grow the islands economy and allowing more visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the island."

"With connections to island bike paths, roads and regional transit shuttle buses, the airport is a vital intermodal transportation hub," Congressman Delahunt said. "When completed, visitors to the island will pass through a modern structure on their way to enjoying Nantucket’s unique charm and beauty."

The Federal Aviation Administration is an agency of the US Department of Transportation. 

-30-